A Joint Parliamentary Committee has recently approved a bill to amend laws concerning Waqf properties. These properties are those dedicated to religious or charitable causes under Islamic law. The committee made 14 changes to the original bill, which was proposed last August. The amendments were finalized on Monday, led by BJP MP Jagadambika Pal.
The committee reviewed a total of 44 suggested changes. However, only those supported by the ruling BJP were accepted. This has led to some complaints from opposition members whose proposals were not included. The approved amendments are now headed for a final vote on January 29th, where the 14 changes will be confirmed. Afterwards, a detailed report of the approved changes will be released.
The initial purpose of the bill was to update the existing laws regarding Waqf properties. These laws are meant to ensure that such properties are correctly managed. Nevertheless, the proposed changes have sparked controversy, as opposition parties feel their perspectives were not properly taken into account during the decision-making process.
According to Jagadambika Pal, the chair of the committee, all aspects of the bill were carefully considered. This statement comes amidst a broader discussion about the need to update laws relating to religious and cultural institutions in the country. The future of the Waqf Amendment Bill now rests on the upcoming vote and the report that follows, which could greatly impact the way these important community assets are managed going forward.